G.W. Graham Grizzlies vs WJ Mouat Hawks

---

It's not how you start it's how you finish. The WJ Mouat Hawks overcame a slow start from their explosive offense in a tough 31-14 victory over a solid G.W. Graham Grizzlies team. 

Defenses ruled the game early on after an early Grizzlies touchdown made the score 8-0. Mouat's power spread attack struggled early against a physical Grizzlies defense. With their offense struggling, the Hawks turned to Joel Muller.

The star halfback's 19 carries for 121 yards, and the Hawk's first touchdown of the game late in the first half paved the way for a momentum change. That score proved crucial as despite still trailing the Grizzlies  8-6 at the half, the Hawks would receive the ball to start the third quarter.

Mouat took that second-half kickoff and dove down the field with tough runs by Muller before an Elijah black touchdown pass to Santiago Llarena capped off the drive. 

On the ensuing kickoff, the momentum would change for good. The Grizzlies fumbled the ensuing return, and the Hawks recovered deep in Graham territory. The drive stalled out, but the Hawks were able to get an FG from kicker Owen Turner. 

After the Grizzlies went three and out on their next drive, Mouat increased their lead on a long 60-yard catch and throw from Black to receiver Max Pratt, the wideout's first of 2 scores on the day. 

The Grizzlies wouldn't go away without a fight. Graham scored on the ensuing drive, cutting the lead to 24-14. As we know from a couple of weeks ago, the Grizzlies are never out of a game. 

Mouat, having seen what occurred when their opponents played Carson Graham, wasn't having any of the Grizzly's late-game heroics this time around. Elijah Black found Max Pratt for his second score to put the final dagger into the Grizzlies for a 31-14 final. 

Elijah Black continues to be Mr. Consistent and makes huge throws when his team needs him most, finishing 17/23 for 174 yards and three touchdowns. Max Pratt had six receptions for 89 yards to go along with his two touchdowns. 

Hawks Defensive Coordinator Daniel Mills was pleased with both the team and the rest of the Hawk's coaching staff. 

"That was a big, tough GW team that came ready to play today. Credit to our boys for bouncing back from an early deficit and turning it on in the second half. Our Oline coach Rick Pennell had our line blocking well both on the ground and in pass pro to give our offence the best chance to win. We now turn to another tough game up in Kelowna against Rutland Secondary, who are very talented in all 3 phases of their game. Should be a great game to watch and we look forward to the challenge they pose" 

That game Kicks off at one next Saturday.